Meaning: The quote "Art is when things appear rounded" by Maurice Denis encapsulates the essence of the artistic interpretation and expression of the world around us. Maurice Denis, a French painter, writer, and theorist, was a prominent figure in the Post-Impressionist movement and a key contributor to the development of modern art. His quote reflects his belief in the transformative power of art to imbue objects and subjects with a sense of harmony, depth, and fluidity.

In a literal sense, the notion of "things appearing rounded" in art can be interpreted as the artist's ability to convey a sense of dimension and form through the use of color, light, and shadow. The concept of "roundedness" in art extends beyond mere physical attributes and encompasses the artist's capacity to imbue their work with a sense of liveliness and organic unity.

Denis' quote can also be understood in a metaphorical sense, suggesting that art has the capacity to soften the edges of reality and evoke a sense of emotional and spiritual completeness. In this context, "roundedness" signifies the artist's ability to transcend the limitations of the physical world and convey a sense of wholeness and interconnectedness through their creative expression.

From a technical perspective, the idea of "things appearing rounded" in art can be linked to the principles of form, perspective, and composition. Artists employ various techniques such as shading, blending, and perspective to create the illusion of depth and roundness in their work. Whether through the meticulous rendering of a still life, the fluid strokes of a landscape painting, or the graceful lines of a figurative composition, artists strive to capture the essence of "roundedness" in their portrayal of the world.

Moreover, Denis' quote emphasizes the transformative power of art to elevate the ordinary into the extraordinary, infusing mundane objects and scenes with a sense of beauty and significance. Through the artist's unique perspective and interpretation, everyday subjects can be elevated to a higher plane of aesthetic appreciation, inviting viewers to see the world through a new lens.

The quote also speaks to the subjective nature of art, highlighting the artist's role as a mediator between the tangible and intangible aspects of existence. By imbuing "things" with roundedness, artists offer viewers a glimpse into their inner worlds, inviting them to partake in the artist's vision and experience the world in a heightened, more enriched manner.

In conclusion, Maurice Denis' quote "Art is when things appear rounded" encapsulates the transformative power of art to imbue the world with a sense of harmony, depth, and fluidity. Whether interpreted literally or metaphorically, the quote underscores the artist's ability to elevate the ordinary into the extraordinary and invite viewers to see the world through a new lens. Through the artist's unique perspective and creative expression, "things" are imbued with roundedness, inviting viewers to partake in the artist's vision and experience the world in a heightened, more enriched manner.